‘Every year gets better’: Oldest living person in Nebraska celebrates 111th birthday

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — With candles glowing and loved ones gathered close, the celebration for the oldest living person in Nebraska was as big as the number on the cake, 111.

Vanesta Gray said she has experienced it all.

“Every day gets better. Every year gets better. I’ll keep on getting better, I hope,” she said.

Family, friends and neighbors gathered at Van Dorn Villa to honor the impact Gray has had on their lives.

Her grandson, Darin Ives, said she is such a positive person to be around.

“For the most part she’s been very independent and does everything on her own,” he said. “She enjoys that, that’s what she’s about, that’s what keeps her going is her independence. As you can see, everybody is here and wanting to celebrate with her because she is such a wonderful person, she’s always smiling and happy.”

According to Ives, Gray is the 37th oldest living person in the United States.

He said he is thankful to have her in his life and be able to hear the wisdom she shares.

“The things that she’s seen are amazing,” he said. “I have to take note to remember it all myself but her memories been really good to as far as what she’s done and what she’s seen, growing up on the farm. It’s awesome, it really is, it’s very inspiring.”

And Gray’s biggest piece of advice from her 111 years is simple.

“Be happy. That’s enough,” she said.